Troubleshooting
Geranium macrorrhizum problems — and how to fix them
Geranium macrorrhizum (Geranium macrorrhizum) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Spreading vigour
Its rhizomes can colonise ground and crowd smaller neighbours. Lift and divide periodically, or plant it where its spread is an asset, such as dry shade.
Tired, woody centres
Old clumps can become bare and woody in the middle. Rejuvenate by lifting, dividing and replanting the vigorous outer rhizomes.
Sparse flowering in deep shade
In very dark spots it makes good foliage but few flowers. Give it a little more light if more bloom is wanted, though the foliage cover remains valuable.
Few pests, but vine weevil in pots
Largely trouble-free in the ground; container plants can suffer vine weevil grub damage to roots. Use a biological control or fresh compost if grown in pots.
Prevent geranium macrorrhizum problems before they start
Most geranium macrorrhizum issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Geranium macrorrhizum varieties: common problems
Looking for geranium macrorrhizum in general rather than its problems? Read the full geranium macrorrhizum care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Geranium macrorrhizum problems — FAQ
Why is my geranium macrorrhizum spreading vigour?
Its rhizomes can colonise ground and crowd smaller neighbours. Lift and divide periodically, or plant it where its spread is an asset, such as dry shade.
Why is my geranium macrorrhizum tired, woody centres?
Old clumps can become bare and woody in the middle. Rejuvenate by lifting, dividing and replanting the vigorous outer rhizomes.
Why is my geranium macrorrhizum sparse flowering in deep shade?
In very dark spots it makes good foliage but few flowers. Give it a little more light if more bloom is wanted, though the foliage cover remains valuable.
Why is my geranium macrorrhizum few pests, but vine weevil in pots?
Largely trouble-free in the ground; container plants can suffer vine weevil grub damage to roots. Use a biological control or fresh compost if grown in pots.